Economic conditions across Europe have been diverging widely. On the fringes of the euro-zone, Greece, Ireland and Portugal have become ensnared in a sovereign-debt crisis. In Northern Europe, driven by the German powerhouse, economies are reviving and public finances are solid. Meanwhile in the UK, there are discouraging signs that the recovery is already running out of steam.
Continue reading “European Economies Diverge – ITTO European Market Report 31st May 2011”Market for Tropical Hardwood Lumber Subdued but Stable – ITTO European Market Report 14th May 2011
The changing political situation in the Ivory Coast is a major point of discussion by European traders and policy makers and is affecting the availability of a few species. However it has not had a significant impact on the overall market for tropical wood in the EU. The further decline in availability from Ivory Coast – which in any case has been low now for many years – has been compensated by a slight easing in the supply situation elsewhere in Africa. At the same time, European demand for both tropical logs and lumber remains subdued, so the overall balance between supply and demand is being maintained and prices for most species and products – with a few exceptions – are stable.
Continue reading “Market for Tropical Hardwood Lumber Subdued but Stable – ITTO European Market Report 14th May 2011”